Petition · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Introduce urgent moratorium on AI Data Centres and BESS outside AI Growth Zones
Open for signatures
2,685 signatures
What the petition asks
Introduce: (1) an immediate moratorium on planning approvals for BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) and Data Centres outside designated AI Growth Zones; (2) mandatory Rural Impact Assessments conducted at local level; and (3) mandatory comprehensive investigation into financing of all proposals.
We believe robust evaluation is needed as to: (i) the cost-benefit analysis of each BESS/Data Centre; and (ii) all financing, including non-UK-based funds. Proposals outside AI Growth Zones can be highly problematic, because they may seek to evade regulation and Government scrutiny. Rural areas are especially vulnerable. There are reports of farmers being threatened with compulsory purchase. Loss of farmland could endanger UK food security. Irreparable harm may be caused to heritage, landscapes, ecology, public health and wellbeing.
Timeline
| 17 Aug 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
2,685
Status
Open for signatures
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened
17 Aug 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 18 Aug 2026.